Young Marine will graduate Somersworth High in full dress blues

Friday

Jun 7, 2013 at 3:15 AMJun 7, 2013 at 5:16 PM

Tony Proulx, 18, has earned the title of a U.S. Marine after graduating from Somersworth High School six months early and spending 13 weeks at boot camp in Parris Island, S.C. He intends to wear his uniform for graduation.

By Christina Higginbothamchigginbotham@fosters.com

SOMERSWORTH — Tony Proulx, 18, has earned the title of a U.S. Marine after graduating from Somersworth High School six months early and spending 13 weeks at boot camp in Parris Island, S.C.

He intends to wear his uniform for graduation.

“Wearing your uniform is symbolizing what you are capable of doing,” Proulx said Thursday. “ Every school should encourage it.”

Seniors across the state have faced a similar situation, but many aren't given the same opportunity as Proulx.

According to the New Hampshire Union Leader, a student at ConVal Regional High School in Peterborough, was denied wearing his Marine Corps uniform at his graduation ceremonies.

“We are exceptionally proud of Tony and we look forward to seeing him in his full dress blues at the festivities,” Donna Robison from SHS said.

Proulx, who is on leave, was scheduled to return to duty before his graduation, but Staff Sergeant Dale Metcalf at the Recruiting Substation in Dover, arranged for an extension.

“We do everything we can in our commands for this special circumstance. Proulx has earned the right to walk the stage and in uniform,” Metcalf said.

Proulx will return to duty for infantry training on June 16, allowing him to participate in graduation with his peers.

Seniors may partake in celebrations all summer, but Proulx said his dedication to the U.S. Marine Corps has steered his future in a successful direction.

“From the education, to the physical training, the Marine Corps has taught me to be disciplined, just as my father has, a former Marine,” Proulx said.

Proulx was in attendance as seniors at SHS were given scholarships and special awards at a banquet ceremony in the school's auditorium Thursday morning.